Between the Atlantic and the Pacific, in the heart of Central America, the HANSEATIC inspiration opens new doors to tropical worlds each day. The locks of a world-famous waterway are some of the first of these gateways to welcome you. What more magnificent way to start your route of exploration than a daytime passage through the Panama Canal? You’ll find out the answer on board as you marvel at the banks of the 80 km (50 mi.) long canal from the inspiration Walk or from the glass balconies. The daytime passage will take you past savannahs, jungle and wild mangrove forests, whilst the experts on board tell you all about the history and operation of this lifeline.

On Isla Iguana, the soft sand and crystal-clear water invite you to relax and swim. People are a rarity here, but there’s a chance of spotting magnificent frigate birds and iguanas. Perhaps you might fulfil a dream of snorkelling with sea turtles. The same wonders are found on the islands of Chiriqui National Park, fringed by coconut palms. Immerse yourself in this paradise world with an independent shore visit. Secluded bays, blue sky, the turquoise Pacific: simply divine.

Historic colonial cities, sparkling blue sea, a diverse animal kingdom and evergreen rainforest: Costa Rica demonstrates in impressive fashion why its name means “rich coast”. More than a quarter of the country consists of protected national parks, making it one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. Go in search of these treasures with the HANSEATIC inspiration. The small town of Puerto Jimenez was still a magnet for gold prospectors until around 1975. Today, there are amazing animals and nature to be found here. With a little luck, a dolphin-watching trip in the Golfo Dulce* will find a variety of species – including whales and sea turtles. A visit to a cocoa farm* will quite literally give you a taste of the “brown gold” and an insight into how it is grown and processed. A modern city centre surrounded by white sandy beaches lies ahead as your expedition ship reaches Quepos. In the 1930s, this idyllic coastal resort was the main port for the export of bananas. Today, the main trade here is in fish and oil palms. The picturesque scenery with lush green rainforests is a true feast for nature lovers’ eyes and on a hike in the Manuel Antonio National Park*, the experts will guide you as you make some incomparable animal sightings. Sloths, iguanas and capuchin monkeys are just a few of the native animal species to be found here. A boat trip through the mangrove forest* will reveal just how diverse life below the water is. 

Today, Acajutla is home to the country’s most important port. Idyllic bays, diverse plants and picturesque sandy beaches – hike along green, overgrown cliffs and enjoy culinary delights under the magnificent palm trees.Along the water’s edge are multifaceted neighbourhoods and countless beaches, where surfers and SUP lovers will be entirely in their element. Explore the west of El Salvador by buggy* along dusty tracks and enjoy the breathtaking view of the lagoons and the Cordillera de Apaneca mountain range with the Ilamatepec volcano. The cultural heritage of the indigenous population will show you the mystical small town of Izalco*, one of the last places where the Pipil language Nawat is still spoken.

From Puerto Quetzal, you will set out on a hike to the Pacaya volcano*, which has been active almost continuously since 1962 – an amazing natural spectacle. Once you’ve arrived at the top, you can enjoy the view of the surrounding landscape from the summit. Colonial Antigua* has the feel of an open-air museum of Spanish baroque architecture as you explore the old town with its churches, monasteries and convents.

Surrounded by palm-fringed beaches and rocky bays, the former fishing village of Playa del Coco is a lively gem and perfect for exploring independently. “Coco Beach”, as it is called by the locals, is the ideal starting point for numerous water sports and recreational opportunities. Enjoy the white sandy beaches or raft down the Corobici River* with its dense tropical vegetation. With luck, you may spot various species of bird or monkey. Discover the bubbling mud pools of the volcano’s hot springs on the Rincon de la Vieja volcano hike*.

Central America has saved its most magnificent paradise for last at the end of your cruise. Isla Tortuga invites you to take a dip on its idyllic beaches. With a little luck, you’ll spot plenty of animals here: squid and dolphins as you snorkel or monkeys and exotic birds on a hike with your experts. Even if the many beautiful natural treasures leave you speechless, this cruise speaks volumes.